Educational System in Finland

Finland's educational system is renowned for its excellence, consistently ranking high in international comparisons. It is based on the principle of equal opportunity for all, with the goal of providing high-quality education that caters to the diverse needs of students. The system is comprehensive, with no tuition fees for full-time students, regardless of their nationality. Understanding the structure and offerings of the Finnish educational system can help expats make informed decisions about their children's schooling.

What are the main stages of education in Finland and what are the names of those stages?

The Finnish educational system is divided into several main stages. The first stage is Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC), followed by Pre-primary Education. Basic Education, which is compulsory, consists of Primary Education (grades 1-6) and Lower Secondary Education (grades 7-9). Post-compulsory education includes Upper Secondary Education, which can be either General Upper Secondary Education or Vocational Education and Training. Tertiary Education comprises University Education and University of Applied Sciences Education.

Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC)

ECEC is designed for children under the age of 6 who are not yet in pre-primary education. It focuses on promoting the child's holistic growth, development, and well-being. ECEC is not compulsory, but it is widely used and supported by the government.

Pre-primary Education

Pre-primary education is for children in the year preceding compulsory education, typically at the age of 6. It aims to promote the child's learning and development, with an emphasis on play, interaction, and a supportive learning environment. Pre-primary education is compulsory and free of charge.

Basic Education

Basic Education is compulsory for all children aged 7 to 16 and is divided into Primary Education (grades 1-6) and Lower Secondary Education (grades 7-9). It focuses on providing students with a broad range of knowledge and skills, with an emphasis on lifelong learning and personal growth. The curriculum includes both academic subjects and practical arts.

How does a newcomer from a different country enroll their kids in school?

To enroll their children in a Finnish school, expats should contact the local education department or the school directly. Required documents typically include a residence permit, identification documents, and school reports from the child's previous school. If the child is not proficient in Finnish or Swedish, they may be directed to preparatory education to learn the language and adapt to the Finnish school system.

My children are still learning Finnish/Swedish, can they enroll in a public school?

Yes, children who are still learning Finnish or Swedish can enroll in public schools in Finland. They may be directed to preparatory education, which focuses on language learning and adaptation to the Finnish school system. The length of preparatory education varies but typically lasts for one year. After that, the student can transfer to a regular class.

Are there public bilingual schools?

There are a limited number of public bilingual schools in Finland, primarily located in larger cities. These schools offer instruction in both Finnish and another language, often Swedish or English. Admission to these schools may depend on the student's language background and the availability of places. Expats should contact the local education department for more information.

What types of private schools are common in Finland?

Private schools in Finland include international schools, religious schools, Steiner schools, and Montessori schools. offer education in languages other than Finnish, typically English, and follow international curricula. Religious schools provide education based on specific religious beliefs. Steiner and Montessori schools follow alternative educational philosophies.

Do expats typically send their children to public or private school? How expensive are Private schools in Finland?

Expats in Finland typically send their children to public schools due to their high quality and no tuition fees. However, some expats may choose private or international schools for language reasons or continuity in the curriculum. Private schools in Finland can be expensive, with tuition fees ranging from a few thousand euros to over ten thousand euros per year, depending on the school and the grade level.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Finland?

Homeschooling is allowed in Finland, but it is subject to strict regulations. Parents must apply for a permit from the local education authority and demonstrate that they can provide appropriate education for their child. The education provided must follow the national curriculum and be comparable to that offered in schools.

May kids attend online school instead of a local school while living in Finland?

Online schooling is not widely recognized as a full-time alternative to traditional schooling in Finland. However, distance learning options may be available in certain situations, such as for students living abroad temporarily or for those with special needs. Expats should consult with the local education authority for more information.